AFRICA CONTINENT, AFRICA FACTS

Africa is the second largest and the second most populous continent of the world. This is the continent
of wonder and the place for evolution of human history. Africa is a continent with diverse culture,
uncountable languages and immense natural resources. Considered as the oldest inhabited territory on
the earth, Africa had no nation states for a long time. This Saharan-Nile complex has always been the
center of interest for the world as the slave trade was the major occupation of this region. Later on,
the slave trade was replaced with commerce trade that opened a new chapter in the history of this
continent. Africa is not only important due to its geographical location but also for its extensive
natural resources which are playing an important role in the development of this continent. Its eye
catching places and magnificent sights along with climatic diversity have made it premium spot for the
tourists .

GEOGRAPHY

Geographically, Africa has occupied the southward landmass of the earth. It separates from Europe
through Mediterranean Sea and Asia through Red sea. Isthmus of Suez connects Africa from Asia. It
also includes Arabian Peninsula and the Zagros mountains of Iran.

TOP ECONOMIES OF AFRICA

Africa has occupied distinct place in the world's economy. Its natural resources, youth power and its
geographical position have quadrupled its charm in the world. Despite its financial crunch, Africa
continues to maintain its growth. Many international agencies are gaining interest in investing in the
emerging economies of Africa. Most progressing economy of Africa is South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria,
Morocco, Sudan and Tunisia. These countries are rich in mineral resources and fossil fuel.

IMPORTANT RIVERS OF AFRICA

Rivers have been of fundamental importance for human being throughout the human history. Rivers
are immensely important geologically, biologically and historically. They provide settlement, food and
means of transport. Major rivers of Africa are the Nile, The Congo, The Niger and Zambezi. Rivers in
Africa are the blood for irrigation and fulfill the needs of human consumption. The Nile is 600km long
and the oldest of historical rivers. It is the longest river of Africa as well as the longest river of the
world. It flows in Ethiopia, Egypt, and Rwanda and in Sudan. This river is historically important
which had given the birth of civilized nation of the world. The second longest river of Africa is The
Congo which flows westward through Central Africa. It has the largest basin delta which covers
4.1million sq km of the land. The Niger River flows through four countries of Africa (Zambia, Angola,
Namibia and Botswana) and empty into Mozambique Channel.

GREAT LAKES OF AFRICA

Africa is not only blessed with rivers but also with lakes too. There is a group of big lakes in central
Africa that might be called the "Great Lakes" of this continent. The largest of these lakes is Lake
Victoria that also holds the reputation of being the 2nd fresh water lake in the world. Another among
many famous lakes in Africa is Lake Tanganyika which is the 7th largest freshwater lake in the world.
Other lakes which carry equal importance for Africa are Lake Malawi, Lake Turkana, Lake Albert,
Lake Kivu and Lake Edward.
WONDERS OF AFRICA

Natural wonders of Africa are spectacular, spell bound, mesmerizing and enthralling. The amazing
wonders of nature are found throughout the continent of Africa. Namibia Desert is one of the natural
wonders found in Africa that stretches 1,000 miles from North to South and is known for being the
oldest desert on the earth.

Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in the entire world. It has a height of 19,341 feet with its
peak covered with snow year around.

Ecologically significant and extremely beautiful Congo caves stand among the most mysterious natural
wonders of the world. They present a majestic display of limestone formation with an extensive range
of natural colors. Situated between the limestone hills, this wonder attracts flocks of people every
year.

A visit to Africa would be incomplete without witnessing the majestic and breathtaking beauty of
Victoria Falls that extend along the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is among the two most
powerful water falls in the world. Besides viewing the falls, you can set a boat trip below the falls or
even observe it from the helicopter depending upon your wish!

TOURISTS ATTRACTION IN AFRICA

Africa is the continent where rainbow duplicates itself over the Victoria Falls, where man and beast
exist in the dense jungle. It's a land where beating of drums create magnificent image in the mind, a
land where we find lofty pyramids to the legendry treasure they hold is the great spot of tourism.
Sahara Desert and Kalahari Desert are the two major deserts of Africa that attract the people from all
over the world. These deserts accommodate too many historical monuments and are embellished with
sand dunes. Africa is a combination of tender and wilderness. Adventure safari tour is a golden
opportunity to meet with natural life of the earth. Its Victoria fall is one of the Seven Wonders of the
World; Pyramids in Egypt, Djenne and the old Sub-Saharan city are the exotic places for tourism.

IMPORTANT UNIVERSITIES IN AFRICA

Education plays fundamental role in the development of society. After a long period of ignorance,
education in Africa began as a tool to prepare the youth to take their place in the respective societies.
Africa has a numerous universities famous worldwide. University of Cape Town, University of
Pretoria, University of Johannesburg and Stellenbosch University are among the highly ranked
universities in Africa whereas University of Cairo has crept on to 5th ranking. American university in
Cairo and Mansoura university of Egypt are among the most important universities of Africa.

MAJOR SPORTS OF AFRICA

Sport is the emblem of peace and relation in the world. Africa can use this card well. Every country in
Africa has its own sporting preferences but largely Soccer is the most common. Olympic Games and
cricket are popular in some African countries.53 countries have football teams in the Confederation of
African football. According to FIFA ranking, Egypt currently has the best soccer team in Africa.
Their team has won the 7 African Cups. South Africa, Kenya and Zimbabwe cricket teams have
played internationally. Rugby is also popular sport in South Africa and in Namibia. Africa is rising as
an emerging star in the sports of the world.

WHY AFRICA IS CALLED THE DARK CONTINENT

Africa was formerly known as Dark Continent. It was previously believed that it was primarily due to
the black skin of its inhabitants and the absence of lights. This old notion has lost its significance now.
It is actually known as the Dark Continent because of its stricken masses who were suffered badly in
the hand of colonialism. Furthermore, it is the last of the continents to be influenced by the western
civilization. This can be stated as another reason for Africa's underdevelopment.